Topaz in the classic yacht category
Naval architecture : Andre Hoek to original lines by Frank Paine
Manufacturer: Holland Jachtbouw
Because redesigning a classic yacht to meet a modern racing rule is a rare task, the jury chose to award a second naval architecture prize to Topaz. This J-8, the name given to her in her J class, is a so-called super J because of her 88-foot waterline.
It was designed by naval architect Frank Paine in 1937 for the America's Cup, but never built. The owner of Topaz tracked down his plans at MIT in Boston and bought them. In the documents was a hand drawn plan of the boat that was neither symmetrical nor fair. From this base, Andre Hoek designed the yacht and the 3D rigging, which he optimized to work in the current handicap system of the J-Class Association.
The mast position, stability, sail area and rigidity of the hull have been extensively studied and compared to all existing J-class hulls. The hull and deck structures have been increased to support very high loads, but also to reduce the sagging of the main stay.
The deck layout is suitable for both high-level racing with good visibility for the helmsman and good communication between the trimmer and helmsman. And for easy cruising, the main cockpit can accommodate eight people for meals in comfort. Something never imagined aboard a J-Class in 1937!
